I'm not sure the consolidation is anything other than a shrewd business move. The society hoardes cash. They just do. Massive transfer of assets to cash is right in line with their personality.
Then from there perspective, why not take that money sitting in assets in places where growth is 1-2 percent, and take it back using it to build where growth is much more likely. Africa and South America for example.
LA isn't "growing". Its just LA. People move around. Its a cash grab and redistribution of the allocation of funds. Simple. Doesn't mean much. The faithful will complain int heir cars as they drive 15 extra minutes ot the hall, and then watch the video of the new hall in Africa their old hall helped erect....and they will feel connected to it.